News Summary
Tampa’s Westshore Plaza, a key shopping destination since 1967, is now on the market following a green light from the City Council for a major redevelopment. The new plans include a 900,000-square-foot mixed-use district featuring offices, retail, dining, and over 1,700 multifamily units. As Macy’s prepares to close its store, concerns arise about traffic impacts and the mall’s future amidst competition from newer shopping locations. This redevelopment presents a significant opportunity to reshape the area that was once a bustling hub.
Tampa’s Iconic Westshore Plaza Hitting the Market!
Are you ready for some big changes in Tampa? Westshore Plaza, a familiar name and a hub of activity in the area, is up for sale! This comes after the City of Tampa gave a thumbs-up to exciting redevelopment plans last year. Currently owned by the Washington Prime Group, Westshore Plaza covers nearly 54 acres of prime real estate, nestled conveniently near Kennedy Boulevard and I-275.
What’s in Store for Westshore Plaza?
In April, the Tampa City Council gave the nod to a significant redevelopment plan that envisions a stunning 900,000-square-foot mixed-use district. Just imagine a vibrant space filled with a combination of offices, a high-tech medical center, trendy shopping options, delightful dining venues, a hotel, and even housing! It’s a game-changer for the area, turning the once-bustling mall into a modern destination for work and play.
For those interested in investing, the sale will include full site control. This means that the new owners will have the freedom to shape the future of this landmark property. However, details about the construction timeline for this ambitious redevelopment still remain under wraps. Fingers crossed that exciting construction updates will roll out soon!
A Glimpse Into the Past
Westshore Plaza has a rich history, being Tampa’s first enclosed shopping mall when it opened its doors back in 1967. However, times have changed, and the mall has not seen as many visitors as before. Recent trends indicate that shoppers are increasingly leaning towards more experiential retail options, which has left Westshore Plaza feeling the pinch. Indeed, the last sale of the mall happened in 2003 for a hefty $116 million, but the landscape has transformed significantly since then.
Challenges Ahead
Things are perhaps getting a bit rougher for Westshore Plaza. The iconic Macy’s anchor store is reportedly set to close its doors early next year, just after the holiday shopping season wraps up. Employees were given the heads-up about this potential change back in August, and some have already shifted to nearby locations to keep their jobs.
In a related twist, the Washington Prime Group recently purchased the Macy’s property for $10 million on October 18, perhaps as part of the larger plan they have for the mall. Macy’s is also looking to shut down 150 stores across the country over the next two years, raising some eyebrows about what’s really on the horizon for Westshore Plaza.
Plans for a Bright Future
The vision for the redeveloped Westshore Plaza is exciting! The plans include more than just retail; also on the drawing board are offices, a medical center, restaurants, a hotel, around 1,700 multifamily units, and a transit station. This ambitious project will likely proceed in phases, allowing the mall to continue operating during the transition.
Community Concerns
As with any major redevelopment, there are voices in the community expressing concerns. Primarily, neighbors are worried about the possible increase in traffic that could come with more businesses and residents in the area. Making sure the improvements benefit everyone will be a key focus.
The Future Landscape of Shopping in Tampa
With newer shopping destinations like International Plaza capturing more shoppers’ attention, it’s clear that Westshore Plaza has some competition. The mall has been struggling with an increasing number of vacant storefronts, a stark contrast to its previous high-end reputation. Will the redevelopment breathe new life into this cherished shopping haven of yesteryear? Only time will tell!
Stay tuned, Tampa! Big changes are on the horizon, and we can’t wait to see what comes next for Westshore Plaza!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- ABC Action News
- Wikipedia: Westshore Plaza
- Business Observer
- Google Search: Westshore Plaza Tampa
- My Q105
- Google Scholar: Westshore Plaza Tampa
- ABC Action News – Makeover Planned
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Westshore Plaza
- Wild 94.1
- Google News: Westshore Plaza redevelopment
Author: STAFF HERE TAMPA WRITER
The TAMPA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERETampa.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Tampa, Hillsborough County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Gasparilla Pirate Festival, Florida State Fair, and Tampa Riverfest. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce and United Way Suncoast, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and technology that power the local economy such as BayCare Health System, Grow Financial Federal Credit Union, and KnowBe4. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREOrlando.com, HERESTPetersburg.com, and HERETallahassee.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
